"Our goal at Midwest Waters Angling Co. is to provide our clients with the best experience possible on the water. We currently guide on more rivers than anyone else in Northern Illinois. We offer raft and power drifter jet boat trips on the most scenic and pristine rivers in the state. Whether you are a beginner or an experienced angler, come out and enjoy the best fly fishing that Illinois has to offer. We are a catch and release guide service that specializes in targeting smallmouth bass, carp, gar, and pike on the fly."

"We mainly go off the beaten path when it comes to the rivers we fish, getting to places that others can't. We often don't focus as much on some of the main rivers, instead targeting backwaters, tributaries, and hard to get to places. There are some beautiful, scenic hidden gems in Illinois, which don't receive much pressure. You don't have to drive hundreds of miles to experience fantastic fishing. There are trophy smallmouth waters here within a 1 - 2 hour drive from Chicago."

Reviews

“My Dad and I had a great day fishing with Mike last Friday. He puts us on the fish in water conditions that were less than ideal, and put up with lots of flies and lures snagged on trees, logs, and rocks. We are thinking of another trip in the fall.”

- Rich B.

“Just had another epic float with MWA. I highly recommend them, I’ve been on a float with both Mike and Kurt and both are full of knowledge of the waters, fishing, and both are great guys. I will definitely be going out again.”

- Josh O.

“My wife and I spent a great though brutally hot day with Kurt over Memorial Day weekend. We cannot say enough good things about him and Midwest Waters Angling! We've been looking for a fly fishing guide in the area (rather than trekking to Michigan) for quite some time and now we have found one! “

“We had not thrown flies in almost two years but Kurt was patient and we saw our casting improve through the course of the day. The fishing is very visual and fun.”

“They have access to private water in a location so beautiful we found ourselves saying "we cannot believe this is Illinois" over and over. Kurt is very professional and is concerned with his clients enjoying themselves. Really top notch. We will be back!”

-Edward R.

“Had a great time on the river with Kurt. He knew the river really well knowing where to spend time and where to push on. I really appreciate his laid back approach and knowing when to offer advice and when to let you figure it out on your own. Will definitely be booking another trip soon!”

-Chris C.

“Just by luck I found, fly fishing in Chi-Town! We live in TX, but my wife is from Chicago. I never would have picked Chicago as my go-to fly fishing destination, but after my best-ever day in an amazing smallmouth habitat; I can’t wait to go back! Two dozen fish; a solid 18 incher, 6 or 8 15-16s, and plenty of 10-12s it was action packed and a ton of fun! We smacked the Smallies, I put it on a Pike, and I even got a Gar on the fly. Kurt and Mike are as great as the fishing and can dial anyone in. My wife loves them, my brothers-in-law are bug-slingers now, and we are all hooked on Midwest Waters!”

-Emil D.

“I fish quite a bit but this was my first fly fishing experience. I’ll throw a fly anytime I get a chance now. Mike was a great teacher. We spent nine hours fishing with a relaxing lunch break. Definitely an unforgettable experience. Highly recommend for the seasoned fisherman or beginner.”

- Dallas C.

“Bring your Advil. Your arm will be sore after Mike A. puts you on some of the best smallmouth in the area. Top notch equipment, access, and knowledge that provides a terrific float trip experience that you can do in a day trip from Chicago.”

- Mike M.

“Another epic float with Midwest Waters Angling Co. Can’t thank Kurt enough again for the professional guide service provided on our recent trip. We’re all about staying off the beaten path and were super stoked to fish MWAC’s exclusive waters. Super scenic river with quality fish….this trip did not disappoint. Kurt kept us on fish all afternoon. These guys are very knowledgeable of the rivers and eager to do everything to get you on those fish. And outside of guiding, they are super fishy dudes fun to hang out with. The Poffy Bros will be back for another float sooner than later.”

-Roger P.

“These guys really know what they are doing, and the most important part of fishing is having fun. You’ll have a great time on the water learning how to fish for local smallmouth. I have enjoyed the company and laughs on the boat. It feels like I’m on vacation for the day, whenever I fish with Midwest Waters”

- Richard L.

"Kurt and Mike provide and excellent time on the water. Wether you’re new to fly fishing or a seasoned angler, they will show you a great time. They have a ton of knowledge of the rivers they fish and love to teach and show people the ropes. Wish I could fish with them every weekend."

- Mike C.

"Mike and Kurt are the best!!! Regardless of the conditions or the angler's skill (my casting ability is beginner and my line and fly management is embarrassing), these guys will get you on the fish with consistency and patience. Beyond being extraordinary guides, these guys are a blast to hang with on the water. I'm definitely getting out with them again."

- Josh B.

"We just got done shooting an episode of Re-Discover your region with Kurt and Mike. We've been out with guides and outfitters in over half the states in the country and these guys are top notch. They are professional, disciplined, tenacious, and thorough and have gear that matches these attributes. They know their water well and how to approach it. We had difficult conditions with bluebird skies and hot water and still did very well.That's all good - most people just expect that from a guide service. More importantly are the personal intangibles that these guys possess - passion for their trade and a down to earth vibe. You'll start the day as a stranger and come off the water with a new friend."

- Ryan S., Brookdog Fishing Co.

"Aside from the gorgeous scenery and extremely clean and well-kept waters, we were put on fish like crazy. Between my best friend and I, Kurt Nelson (fly guide) put us on over 30 smallmouth and not to mention the 20 fish that we lost boat side! With over 4 fish over 17" and the multitude of healthy 16" fish, there was not a time when we were not casting, anxious to land the next fighter! This was a great time with a good barbeque lunch cooked riverside by fly guide Mike Allen. Extremely cheap and affordable for a true smallie float! Really appreciate the guides waiting for good weather and having a flexible schedule to make sure we were going to be on fish! Very underrated and young guide service I recommend! New friends, tight lines, and good laughs! These guys are a good spirited and experienced guide service!"

- Dane S.

"Awesome full day pre spawn float! These guys know this water and these fish very well. Mike put me on lots of big fish in less than ideal weather and water temps! Super fishy dude! This is a true quality midwestern smallmouth float, closer to Chicago than you can imagine. Great guys, easy to work with. This won’t be my last float with MWA!"

- Eddie M.

"My sister and I went out with Mike yesterday. Neither of us had ever fly fished before. Mike is a great teacher and a genuine pleasure to be around. We both caught a few fish. A half day went by so quickly and I think I have a new hobby!"

- Annie K.

"I had the opportunity to fish with MWA and to sum it up easily. These guys are hardcore anglers, who have their rivers dialed in. Professionals who really enjoy guiding and enjoy showing all levels of anglers the sport and the beauty that surrounds it. I would highly recommend booking a trip with either Capt Kurt or Capt Mike. Keep up the great works guys!! Thanks for sharing the beautiful waters that you get to call your office."